With the current lifestyle trend toward “cocooning,” fireplaces — alluring because they're a strong visual focal point — are a design feature in high demand. Makers have responded with increased variety, new features, and customization options. Trims, temperature, even flame size can be carefully selected or changed on a whim. Optional remote controls are fast becoming must-haves for homeowners who want to enjoy their investment to the fullest.

Hot DÉcor

Fiery Hues tiles come in a wide range of colors and sizes designed specifically for fireplace installations. All the company's tiles are freeze- and thaw-resistant and are suitable for use both indoors and out. A number of trim styles, including rails, caps, and crowns, are also offered. Trikeenan. 603.355.2961. www.trikeenan.com.

Watered Down, Fired Up

The Aqueon hydrogen-burning fireplace extracts and burns hydrogen fuel from water, offering an alternative energy source that burns cleanly (eliminating the need for venting or a sealed glass front) with 100% efficiency, the maker says. Aqueon boasts a sculpture-like design with stainless steel and copper elements, along with a 360-degree view of the flame. It can be installed virtually anywhere that has water and electrical access. Heat-N-Glo. 888.427.3973. www.heatnglo.com.

A fireplace is a wonderful thing. It provides real heat, but, even more important, it generates the kind of warmth people feel in their hearts. So it's no wonder that most new homes built today have at least one fireplace. Unfortunately, code requirements sometimes prohibit builders from installing these babies. But there is a solution: an electric fireplace.